U.S. patent application number 14/275686 was filed with the patent office on 2015-01-15 for mobile solar power rack.
This patent application is currently assigned to Mobile Grid, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Mobile Grid, LLC. Invention is credited to Joseph Meppelink, Joseph Romano, Andrew Vrana.
Application Number | 20150013750 14/275686 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51898813 |
Filed Date | 2015-01-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150013750 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Meppelink; Joseph ; et
al. |
January 15, 2015 |
Mobile Solar Power Rack
Abstract
An assembly for positioning photovoltaic panels on a structure
includes a main frame connectable to the structure, and a
subassembly connectable to the main frame to support a photovoltaic
panel, in which the subassembly is rotatable with respect to the
main frame to place the subassembly in a deployed position. The
assembly may further include a stop-arm connectable to the main
frame to support the subassembly when in the deployed position.
Inventors: |
Meppelink; Joseph; (Houston,
TX) ; Vrana; Andrew; (Houston, TX) ; Romano;
Joseph; (Houston, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Mobile Grid, LLC |
Houston |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Mobile Grid, LLC
Houston
TX
|
Family ID: |
51898813 |
Appl. No.: |
14/275686 |
Filed: |
May 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61823019 |
May 14, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
136/245 ;
211/164; 211/41.17 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24S 2030/16 20180501;
F24S 2030/132 20180501; Y02E 10/50 20130101; F24S 25/70 20180501;
F24S 2025/012 20180501; F24S 30/458 20180501; F24S 30/425 20180501;
F24S 25/13 20180501; F24S 30/455 20180501; H02S 20/30 20141201;
H02S 30/20 20141201; Y02E 10/47 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
136/245 ;
211/41.17; 211/164 |
International
Class: |
H02S 30/20 20060101
H02S030/20; F24J 2/52 20060101 F24J002/52; H01L 31/042 20060101
H01L031/042; F24J 2/54 20060101 F24J002/54 |
Claims
1. An assembly for positioning photovoltaic panels on a structure,
comprising: a main frame connectable to the structure; a first
subassembly connected to a side of the main frame to support a
first photovoltaic panel, the first subassembly rotatable with
respect to the main frame to place the first subassembly in a
deployed position; a second subassembly connected to another side
of the main frame to support a second photovoltaic panel, the
second subassembly rotatable with respect to the main frame to
place the second subassembly in a second deployed position; and a
third subassembly connected to the main frame between the first
subassembly and the second subassembly to support a third
photovoltaic panel.
2. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a first stop-arm
connectable to the main frame to support the first subassembly when
in the deployed position; and a second stop-arm connectable to the
main frame to support the second subassembly when in the second
deployed position.
3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the main frame comprises: a
first subassembly support member with the first subassembly
rotatably connected to the first subassembly support member and the
first stop-arm connectable to the first subassembly support member;
and a second subassembly support member with the second subassembly
rotatably connected to the second subassembly support member and
the second stop-arm connectable to the second subassembly support
member.
4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the first subassembly support
member extends upwardly further from the main frame than the second
subassembly support member.
5. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the first stop-arm is
adjustably connectable to the main frame such that an angle of the
first subassembly when in the deployed position is adjustable with
respect to the main frame, and wherein the second stop-arm is
adjustably connectable to the main frame such that an angle of the
second subassembly when in the second deployed position is
adjustable with respect to the main frame.
6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the third subassembly is
rotatable with respect to the main frame to place the third
subassembly in a third deployed position.
7. The assembly of claim 6, further comprising: an actuator to
rotate the third subassembly with respect to the main frame.
8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the actuator comprises a first
actuator and a second actuator connected between the main frame and
the third subassembly to rotate and adjust a height of the third
subassembly between an undeployed position and the third deployed
position.
9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein a width of the main frame is
substantially the same as a width of the structure.
10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first subassembly is
rotatable between a folded position and the deployed position with
respect to the main frame, and wherein the second subassembly is
rotatable between a folded position and the second deployed
position with respect to the main frame.
11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the first subassembly is
biased to a central position between the folded position and the
deployed position, and wherein the second subassembly is biased to
a central position between the folded position and the second
deployed position.
12. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a lever removably
connectable to the first subassembly to assist rotating the first
subassembly with respect to the main frame.
13. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the main frame comprises: a
first side support member with the first subassembly connected to
the first side support member of the main frame; a second side
support member with the second subassembly connected to the second
side support member of the main frame; and a cross support member
extending between and connected to the first side support member
and the second side support member.
14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the cross support member is
adjustable in length such that a width of the main frame is
adjustable.
15. An assembly for positioning a photovoltaic panel on a
structure, comprising: a main frame connectable to the structure; a
subassembly connectable to the main frame to support a photovoltaic
panel, the subassembly rotatable with respect to the main frame to
place the subassembly in a deployed position; and a stop-arm
connectable to the main frame to support the subassembly when in
the deployed position.
16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the subassembly is
connectable to one side of the main frame, the assembly further
comprising: a second subassembly connectable to another side of the
main frame to support a second photovoltaic panel, the second
subassembly rotatable with respect to the main frame to place the
second subassembly in a second deployed position; and a third
subassembly connectable to the main frame between the first
subassembly and the second subassembly to support a third
photovoltaic panel.
17. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the main frame comprises: a
first side support member; a second side support member; a cross
support member extendable between and connectable to the first side
support member and the second side support member; and a
subassembly support member connectable to the first side support
member with the subassembly rotatably connectable to the
subassembly support member and the stop-arm connectable to the
subassembly support member.
18. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the stop-arm is adjustably
connectable to the main frame such that an angle of the subassembly
when in the deployed position is adjustable with respect to the
main frame.
19. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the subassembly is rotatable
between a folded position and the deployed position with respect to
the main frame, and wherein the subassembly is biased to a central
position between the folded position and the deployed position.
20. The assembly of claim 15, further comprising: a lever removably
connectable to the subassembly to assist rotating the subassembly
with respect to the main frame; and a locking mechanism removably
connectable between the subassembly and the main frame to prevent
rotation of the subassembly with respect to the main frame.
21. A kit of parts for a mobile solar power generation system,
comprising: a modular structure; a photovoltaic panel; a main frame
connectable to the modular structure; a subassembly connectable to
the main frame to support the photovoltaic panel, the subassembly
rotatable with respect to the main frame to deploy the subassembly;
and a stop-arm connectable to the main frame to support the
subassembly when deployed.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Due to increasing environmental concerns, alternatives to
non-renewable and polluting fossil fuels are constantly being
investigated. Solar energy has received increasing attention as an
alternative renewable, non-polluting energy source, and
photovoltaic installations, such as on commercial and residential
roofs, are becoming increasingly popular. It is well known that
solar power is derived from photovoltaic systems, solar panels made
from silicon, and from other materials and thin film solar
deployments. An array of solar panels tied together with one or
more solar power gathering devices is an environmentally
sustainable method of generating clean energy that can be used
internationally. Solar power generation can come from thin film
solar applications, panelized silicon crystal applications, and
also from passive solar design schemes and many other sources. The
cost of solar power gathering systems has decreased in recent years
with efficiency improving. Traditional photovoltaic racking systems
often require lengthy and complicated assembly and shipping
methodologies, which may increase the need for specialized or
costly tools or shipping requirements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of
the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0003] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an assembly in a folded
position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0004] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the assembly in a
deployed position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0005] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the assembly on a modular
structure in the folded position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0006] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the assembly on the
modular structure in the deployed position in accordance with one
or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0007] FIG. 5 shows a lateral view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the folded position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0008] FIG. 6 shows a lateral view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the deployed position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0009] FIG. 7 shows an above view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the folded position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0010] FIG. 8 shows an above view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the deployed position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 9 shows a cutaway view of the assembly in the deployed
position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of the assembly in accordance
with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of a main frame of the
assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of a subassembly connectable
to the main frame of the assembly in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 13 shows an exploded view of a first subassembly
assembly and a second subassembly connectable to the main frame of
the assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0016] FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C show side cross-sectional views of
the assembly in the deployed position in accordance with one or
more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of an assembly in a folded
position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the assembly in a
deployed position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the assembly on a
modular structure in the folded position in accordance with one or
more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the assembly in the
deployed position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 19 shows a lateral view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the folded position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 20 shows a lateral view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the deployed position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 21 shows an above view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the folded position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 22 shows an above view of the assembly on the modular
structure in the deployed position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 23 shows a cutaway view of the assembly in the deployed
position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 24 shows an exploded view of the assembly in accordance
with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of a main frame of the
assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 26 shows an exploded view of a first subassembly
assembly and a second subassembly connectable to the main frame of
the assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0029] FIGS. 27A and 27B show a side cross-sectional view of the
assembly in the deployed position in accordance with one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0030] FIGS. 28A and 28B show lateral and longitudinal views of a
lever attachment mechanism for use with a lever or lever arm in
accordance with one or more embodiments of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] The following discussion is directed to various embodiments
of the invention. The drawing figures are not necessarily to scale.
Certain features of the embodiments may be shown exaggerated in
scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of
conventional elements may not be shown in the interest of clarity
and conciseness. The embodiments disclosed should not be
interpreted, or otherwise used, as limiting the scope of the
disclosure, including the claims. It is to be fully recognized that
the different teachings of the embodiments discussed below may be
employed separately or in any suitable combination to produce
desired results. In addition, one skilled in the art will
understand that the following description has broad application,
and the discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be an
illustration of that embodiment, and not intended to intimate that
the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to
that embodiment.
[0032] Certain terms are used throughout the following description
and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one
skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to
the same feature or component by different names. This document
does not intend to distinguish between components or features that
differ in name but are the same structure or function.
[0033] In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms
"including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended fashion, and
thus should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to .
. . ." Also, the term "couple" or "couples" is intended to mean
either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device
couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct
connection, or through an indirect connection via other devices,
components, and connections. In addition, as used herein, the terms
"axial" and "axially" generally mean along or parallel to a central
axis (e.g., central axis of a body or a port), while the terms
"radial" and "radially" generally mean perpendicular to the central
axis. For instance, an axial distance refers to a distance measured
along or parallel to the central axis, and a radial distance means
a distance measured perpendicular to the central axis. Further, the
use of "top," "bottom," "above," "below," and variations of these
terms is made for perspective and convenience, but may not require
any particular orientation of the components.
[0034] In accordance with one or more embodiments, the present
disclosure may relate to an assembly for positioning a photovoltaic
panel on a modular structure. The assembly may include a main frame
that may be connectable or mountable on a top surface of the
modular structure, such that a footprint of the main frame may be
substantially similar to the top surface of the modular structure.
A subassembly may be connectable to the main frame to support a
photovoltaic panel such that the subassembly is rotatable with
respect to the main frame to deploy the subassembly. For example,
the subassembly may be rotatable between a folded position and a
deployed position with respect to the main frame, and further the
subassembly may be biased to a central position between the folded
position and the deployed position. The assembly may further
include a stop-arm connectable, such as removably connectable, to
the main frame to support the subassembly when deployed. The
subassembly may be connectable to one side of the main frame, in
which the assembly may include a second subassembly connectable to
another side of the main frame to support a second photovoltaic
panel such that the second subassembly rotatable with respect to
the main frame to deploy the second subassembly. Further, the
assembly may further include a third subassembly connectable to the
main frame between the first subassembly and the second subassembly
to support a third photovoltaic panel.
[0035] The main frame may include a first side support member, a
second side support member, and a cross support member connectable
between to the first side support member and the second side
support member. Further, a subassembly support member may be
connectable to the first side support member with the subassembly
rotatably connectable to the subassembly support member and the
stop-arm connectable to the subassembly support member. The
stop-arm may be adjustably connectable to the main frame such that
an angle at which the subassembly is supported by the stop-arm is
adjustable with respect to the main frame. Further, a lever or
lever bar may be removably connectable to the subassembly to assist
rotating the subassembly with respect to the main frame, and/or a
locking mechanism may be removably connectable between the
subassembly and the main frame to prevent rotation of the
subassembly with respect to the main frame, such as when the
subassembly is in the folded position.
[0036] Further, in one or more embodiments, the present disclosure
may provide a kit of parts for a mobile solar power generation
system. For example, the present application may provide a kit of
parts or components, such as formed or cut by a machine (e.g.,
computer controlled machine) and/or formed from angle iron, for
quick plug-and-play assembly of a custom, foldable solar racking
system designed to maximize solar production on modular structures
or buildings, such as an intermodal container (e.g., ISO shipping
container). The kit of parts and solar equipment may be designed to
travel securely inside a modular structure, such as an ISO
container for domestic and global applications, for convenient
shipping. Amongst other parts or components, the kit of parts for a
mobile solar power generation system may include a modular
structure, a photovoltaic panel, a main frame connectable to the
modular structure, a subassembly connectable to the main frame to
support the photovoltaic panel with the subassembly rotatable with
respect to the main frame to deploy the subassembly, and a stop-arm
connectable to the main frame to support the subassembly when
deployed.
[0037] Referring now to FIGS. 1-14C, multiple views of an assembly
100 for positioning one or more photovoltaic panels 190 on a
modular structure 192 in accordance with one or more embodiments of
the present disclosure are shown. The assembly 100 may include a
main frame 102 connectable or mountable to the modular structure
192. The assembly 100 may further include one or more subassemblies
104 connectable to the main frame 102, in which each subassembly
104 may support one or more of the photovoltaic panels 190. One or
more of the subassemblies 104 may be movable and/or rotatable with
respect to the main frame 102 to deploy the subassemblies 104. As
such, the subassemblies 104 may be movable and/or rotatable between
a folded position and a deployed position with respect to the main
frame 102.
[0038] Further, in an embodiment in which the assembly 100 includes
more than one subassembly 104, a first subassembly 104A (e.g., an
exterior subassembly) may be connectable to one side (e.g., a
longitudinal side) of the main frame 102, and a second subassembly
104B (e.g., another exterior subassembly) may be connectable to
another side (e.g., another longitudinal side) of the main frame
102. In an embodiment in which the assembly 100 includes more than
two subassemblies 104, the assembly 100 may further include a third
subassembly 104C (e.g., an interior subassembly) connectable to the
main frame 102 between the first subassembly 104A and the second
subassembly 104B.
[0039] Accordingly, FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the assembly
100 in a folded position, and FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of
the assembly 100 in a deployed position. FIG. 3 shows a perspective
view of the assembly 100 on the modular structure 192 in the folded
position, and FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the assembly 100
on the modular structure 192 in the deployed position. FIG. 5 shows
a lateral view of the assembly 100 on the modular structure 192 in
the folded position, and FIG. 6 shows a lateral view of the
assembly 100 on the modular structure 192 in the deployed position.
FIG. 7 shows an above view of the assembly 100 on the modular
structure 192 in the folded position, and FIG. 8 shows an above
view of the assembly 100 on the modular structure 192 in the
deployed position. FIG. 9 shows a cutaway view of the assembly 100
in the deployed position, and FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of the
assembly 100. FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of the main frame 102
of the assembly 100, FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of the third
subassembly 104C (e.g., interior subassembly) connectable to the
main frame 102 of the assembly 100, and FIG. 13 shows an exploded
view of the first subassembly assembly 104A and the second
subassembly 104B (e.g., exterior subassemblies) connectable to the
main frame 102 of the assembly 100. Further, FIGS. 14A, 14B, and
14C show side cross-sectional views of the assembly 100 in the
deployed position.
[0040] In one or more embodiments, as the main frame 102 may be
connectable or mountable to the modular structure 192, a footprint
of the main frame 102 may be similar in shape and/or in size as a
top side of the modular structure 192. Accordingly, as discussed
above, the modular structure 192 may be an intermodal container
(e.g., ISO shipping container), and therefore may have a
standardized size of about 20 ft (6.10 m) in length and about 8 ft
(2.44 m) in width. As such, the main frame 102 may have a size of
about 20 ft (6.10 m) in length and/or about 8 ft (2.44 m) in width,
though the present disclosure is not so limited. For example, in
one or more embodiments, the main frame 102 may have an adjustable
width and/or adjustable length, and/or the main frame 102 may be
built to accommodate modular structures of different lengths, as an
intermodal container may vary in length from about 8 ft (2.44 m) up
to about 56 ft (17.07 m).
[0041] In one or more embodiments, one side of the main frame 102
may be connectable or mountable to one side of the modular
structure 192, and another side of the main frame 102 may be
connectable or mountable to another side of the modular structure
192. Accordingly, as shown specifically in FIG. 11, the main frame
102 may include a first side support member 106A and a second side
support member 106B. The first side support member 106A and the
second side support member 106B may extend along at least a portion
of the longitudinal side of the modular structure 192. Further, one
or more cross support members 108 may extend between and/or be
connected between the first side support member 106A and the second
side support member 106B. In this embodiment, four cross support
members 108 are shown as connected between the first side support
member 106A and the second side support member 106B.
[0042] One or more subassembly support members 110 may then be
connected to the main frame 102. In FIG. 11, the main frame 102 may
include one or more first subassembly support members 110A, such as
to rotatably connect the first subassembly 104A thereto, and/or may
include one or more second subassembly support members 110B, such
as to rotatably connect the second subassembly 104B thereto. The
first subassembly support members 110A may be connected to the
first side support member 106A and/or each of the cross support
members 108. Each of the first subassembly support members 110A may
then include a hole 112A formed therethrough to rotatably connect
the first subassembly 104A to the main frame 102. Further, the
second subassembly support members 110B may be connected to the
second side support member 106B and/or each of the cross support
members 108.
[0043] Each of the second subassembly support members 110B may then
include a hole 112B formed therethrough to rotatably connect the
second subassembly 104B to the main frame 102. As shown, one or
more of the first subassembly support members 110A may be longer,
extend further from the main frame 102, and/or be connected to the
respective subassembly 104 than one or more of the second
subassembly support members 110B. This arrangement may enable the
connection of the first subassembly 104A with the main frame 102 to
sit higher from and/or extend further away from the main frame 102
than the connection of the second subassembly 104B with the main
frame 102, thereby enabling a consolidated arrangement for the
assembly 100 when in the fold position.
[0044] One or more stop arms 114 may be connected to the main frame
102. As shown in the figures, the main frame 102 may include one or
more first stop-arms 114A, such as each first stop-arm 114A
connected (e.g., removably connected) to the first side support
member 106A and/or each of the cross support members 108. The first
stop-arms 114A may then be used to support the first subassembly
104A when deployed (e.g., in the deployed position). For example,
one or more of the first stop-arms 114A may include a support
surface 116A (e.g., support pad) that engages and/or contacts the
first subassembly 104A when deployed. Further, one or more of the
first stop-arms 114A may include an abutment surface 118A (e.g., a
projection or projected surface) that abuts against the main frame
102, such as abutting against the first subassembly support members
110A in this embodiment.
[0045] Further, the main frame 102 may include one or more second
stop-arms 114B, such as each second stop-arm 114B connected (e.g.,
removably connected) to the second side support member 106B and/or
each of the cross support members 108. The second stop-arms 114B
may then be used to support the second subassembly 104B when
deployed (e.g., in the deployed position). For example, one or more
of the second stop-arms 114B may include a support surface 116B
(e.g., support pad) that engages and/or contacts the second
subassembly 104B when deployed. Further, one or more of the second
stop-arms 114B may include an abutment surface 118B (e.g., a
projection or projected surface) that abuts against the main frame
102, such as abutting against the second side support member 106B
in this embodiment.
[0046] As discussed above, one or more of the subassemblies 104 may
be connected to the main frame 102 to support one or more of the
photovoltaic panels 190. More particularly, one or more of the
subassemblies 104 may be movable and/or rotatable with respect to
the main frame 102 to deploy the subassembly 104, such as in the
deployed position. Accordingly, as shown particularly in FIGS. 5
and 6, the third subassembly 104C may be movable and/or rotatable
with respect to the main frame 102, such as to move the third
subassembly 104C between the undeployed position and the deployed
position.
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 12, an exploded view of the third
subassembly 104C in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure is shown. The third subassembly 104C may include
one or more support members, such as a first side support member
120A and a second side support member 120B. One or more
photovoltaic panels 190 may then be connected to and/or supported
by the first side support member 120A and the second side support
member 120B. Further, to movably connect the third subassembly 104C
to the main frame 102 within the assembly 100, one or more
actuators 122 may be connected between the third subassembly 104C
and the main frame 102. In this embodiment, one or more actuators
122, such as two actuators 122, may be connected between the first
side support member 120A and the cross support members 108 of the
main frame 102, and one or more actuators 122, such as two
actuators 122, may be connected between the second side support
member 120B and the cross support members 108 of the main frame
102. The actuators 122 may then be able to rotate and adjust a
height of the third subassembly 104C between an undeployed position
and a deployed position with respect to the main frame 102.
[0048] In the present disclosure, the actuators 122 may be
mechanically powered, such as screw jacks and/or scissor jacks as
shown in the present figures. However, those having ordinary skill
in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure is not so
limited, as one or more actuators of the present disclosure may
additionally or alternatively be hydraulically powered,
pneumatically powered, electrically powered, and the like.
[0049] Referring now to FIG. 13, an exploded view of the first
subassembly 104A and the second subassembly 104B in accordance with
one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The
subassemblies 104A and 104B may each include one or more arms and
support members. For example, the first subassembly 104A may
include one or more arms 124A, each including a hole 126A formed
therein, that rotatably connect to the main frame 102. In
particular, each of the holes 126A of the arms 124A may be aligned
with a respective hole 112A of the first subassembly support
members 110A with a rod 128A or axle inserted through the holes
112A and 126A to rotatably connect the first subassembly 104A to
the main frame 102. Further, the first subassembly 104A may include
one or more cross support members 130A extending and/or connected
between the arms 124A to connect the arms 124A to each other,
and/or may include one or more panel support members 132A extending
and/or connected between the arms 124A to support one or more
photovoltaic panels 190 on the first subassembly 104A.
[0050] Further, the second subassembly 104B may include one or more
arms 124B, each including a hole 126B formed therein, that
rotatably connect to the main frame 102. In particular, each of the
holes 126B of the arms 124B may be aligned with a respective hole
112B of the second subassembly support members 110B with a rod 128B
or axle inserted through the holes 112B and 126B to rotatably
connect the second subassembly 104B to the main frame 102. Further,
the second subassembly 104B may include one or more cross support
members 130B extending and/or connected between the arms 124B to
connect the arms 124B to each other, and/or may include one or more
panel support members 132B extending and/or connected between the
arms 124B to support one or more photovoltaic panels 190 on the
second subassembly 104B.
[0051] In one or more embodiments, the assembly 100 may include one
or more levers 134 or lever bars, such as to facilitate moving one
or more of the subassemblies 104 between the folded position and
the deployed position. For example, the levers 134 may be removably
connected to the first subassembly 104A to assist and facilitate
rotating the first subassembly 104A with respect to the main frame
102 when deploying the first subassembly 104A. The levers 134 may
then be removed, such as from the sockets 136, and inserted into
corresponding sockets on the second subassembly 104B, such as to
assist and facilitate rotating the second subassembly 104B with
respect to the main frame 102 when deploying the second subassembly
104B.
[0052] In one or more embodiments, the assembly 100 may include one
or more locking mechanisms, such as tie-downs, such as to
facilitate preventing undesired movement of one or more components
of the assembly 100. For example, one or more locking mechanisms
may be coupled between the levers 134 and/or the first subassembly
104A when in the folded position such as to prevent one or more of
the subassemblies from deploying. This may be particularly helpful
during transport of the assembly 100.
[0053] Further, in one or more embodiments, a size of the assembly
100, such as a length and/or a width of the main frame 102 of
assembly 100, may be adjustable. With reference to FIG. 11, the
main frame 102 may include one or more side support members 106 and
one or more cross support members 108, in which one or more of
these support members may be adjustable.
[0054] For example, the cross support members 108 may be
adjustable, such as to extend and/or retract in length, as desired,
such that the main frame 102 may expand and/or retract in width.
The cross support members 108 may each be formed from one or more
segments, in which the segments may then be selectively movable and
securable with respect to the each other. The segments of the cross
support members 108 may each have multiple holes formed therein
with securing mechanisms that may selectively secure the segments
of the cross support members 108 to each other as desired.
Additionally or alternatively, the segments of the cross support
members 108 may have telescoping interaction with each other. Those
having ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that other
embodiments and arrangements not specifically disclosed are
contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0055] Referring now to FIGS. 15-28B, multiple views of an assembly
200 for positioning one or more photovoltaic panels 290 on a
modular structure 292 in accordance with one or more embodiments of
the present disclosure are shown. The assembly 200 may include a
main frame 202 connectable or mountable to the modular structure
292. In this embodiment, the main frame 202 and the assembly 200
may have a width similar to that of the modular structure 292, but,
as shown, the length of the main frame 202 and the assembly 200 may
be longer than the length of the modular structure 292.
[0056] The assembly 200 may further include one or more
subassemblies 204 connectable to the main frame 202, in which each
subassembly 204 may support one or more of the photovoltaic panels
290. As with the above, one or more of the subassemblies 204 may be
movable and/or rotatable with respect to the main frame 202 to
deploy the subassemblies 204. As such, the subassemblies 204 may be
movable and/or rotatable between a folded position and a deployed
position with respect to the main frame 202. In this embodiment, as
the assembly 200 includes more than one subassembly 204, a first
subassembly 204A (e.g., an exterior subassembly) may be connectable
to one side (e.g., a longitudinal side) of the main frame 202, and
a second subassembly 204B (e.g., another exterior subassembly) may
be connectable to another side (e.g., another longitudinal side) of
the main frame 202.
[0057] Accordingly, FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the
assembly 200 in a folded position, and FIG. 16 shows a perspective
view of the assembly 200 in a deployed position. FIG. 17 shows a
perspective view of the assembly 200 on the modular structure 292
in the folded position, and FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the
assembly 200 in the deployed position. FIG. 19 shows a lateral view
of the assembly 200 on the modular structure 292 in the folded
position, and FIG. 20 shows a lateral view of the assembly 200 on
the modular structure 292 in the deployed position. FIG. 21 shows
an above view of the assembly 200 on the modular structure 292 in
the folded position, and FIG. 22 shows an above view of the
assembly 200 on the modular structure 292 in the deployed position.
FIG. 23 shows a cutaway view of the assembly 200 in the deployed
position, and FIG. 24 shows an exploded view of the assembly 200.
FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of the main frame 102 of the
assembly 100, and FIG. 26 shows an exploded view of the first
subassembly assembly 204A and the second subassembly 204B (e.g.,
exterior subassemblies) connectable to the main frame 202 of the
assembly 200. FIGS. 27A and 27B show a side cross-sectional view of
the assembly 200 in the deployed position. Further, FIGS. 28A and
28B show lateral and longitudinal views of a lever attachment
mechanism 240 for use with a lever 234 or lever arm in accordance
with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0058] Accordingly, as shown specifically in FIG. 25, the assembly
may include a main frame 202, in which the main frame 202 may
include multiple side support members 206 that may be connected to
each other. Further, one or more cross support members 208 may
extend between and/or be connected between the side support members
206, such as extending between the longitudinal side support
members 206. In this embodiment, ten cross support members 208 are
shown as extended and/or connected between the longitudinal side
support members 206. In this embodiment, a weather screen 250 may
be extended across the main frame 202, such as extended across the
lateral side support members 208.
[0059] One or more subassembly support members 210 may then be
connected to the main frame 202. In FIG. 11, the main frame 202 may
include one or more first subassembly support members 210A, such as
to rotatably connect the first subassembly 204A thereto, and/or may
include one or more second subassembly support members 210B, such
as to rotatably connect the second subassembly 204B thereto. The
first subassembly support members 210A may be connected to a side
support member 206, such as inserted into a slot formed within the
one longitudinal side support member 206. Each of the first
subassembly support members 210A may then include a hole 212A
formed therethrough to rotatably connect the first subassembly 204A
to the main frame 202. Further, the second subassembly support
members 210B may be connected to a side support member 206, such as
inserted into a slot formed within another longitudinal side
support member 206. Each of the second subassembly support members
210B may then include a hole 212B formed therethrough to rotatably
connect the second subassembly 204B to the main frame 202.
[0060] As shown in this embodiment, one or more of the second
subassembly support members 210B may be longer, extend further from
the main frame 202, and/or be further connected to the respective
subassembly 204 than one or more of the first subassembly support
members 210A. This arrangement may enable the connection of the
second subassembly 204B with the main frame 202 to sit higher from
and/or extend further away from the main frame 202 than the
connection of the first subassembly 204B with the main frame 202,
thereby enabling a consolidated arrangement for the assembly 200
including two subassemblies 204A and 204B when in the folded
position.
[0061] One or more stop arms 214 may be connected to the main frame
202. As shown in the figures, the main frame 202 may include one or
more first stop-arms 214A, such as each first stop-arm 214A
connected (e.g., removably connected) to a first subassembly
support member 210A and/or inserted within a slot formed within a
longitudinal side support member 206. The first stop-arms 214A may
then be used to support the first subassembly 204A when deployed
(e.g., in the deployed position). Further, the main frame 202 may
include one or more second stop-arms 214B, such as each second
stop-arm 214B connected (e.g., removably connected) to a second
subassembly support member 210B and/or inserted within a slot
formed within a longitudinal side support member 206. The second
stop-arms 214B may then be used to support the second subassembly
204B when deployed (e.g., in the deployed position).
[0062] Referring now to FIGS. 26, 27A, and 27B, exploded and
detailed views of the first subassembly 204A and the second
subassembly 204B in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
present disclosure are shown. The subassemblies 204A and 204B may
each include one or more arms and support members. As such, the
first subassembly 204A may include one or more arms 224A, each
including a hole 226A formed therein, that rotatably connect to the
main frame 202. In particular, each of the holes 226A of the arms
224A may be aligned with a respective hole 212A of the first
subassembly support members 210A with a rod 228A or axle inserted
through the holes 212A and 226A to rotatably connect the first
subassembly 204A to the main frame 202. Further, the first
subassembly 204A may include one or more cross support members 230A
extending and/or connected between the arms 224A to connect the
arms 224A to each other, and/or may include one or more panel
support members 232A extending and/or connected between the arms
224A to support one or more photovoltaic panels 290 on the first
subassembly 204A.
[0063] Further, the second subassembly 204B may include one or more
arms 224B, each including a hole 226B formed therein, that
rotatably connect to the main frame 202. In particular, each of the
holes 226B of the arms 224B may be aligned with a respective hole
212B of the second subassembly support members 210B with a rod 228B
or axle inserted through the holes 212B and 226B to rotatably
connect the second subassembly 204B to the main frame 202. Further,
the second subassembly 204B may include one or more cross support
members 230B extending and/or connected between the arms 224B to
connect the arms 224B to each other, and/or may include one or more
panel support members 232B extending and/or connected between the
arms 224B to support one or more photovoltaic panels 290 on the
second subassembly 204B.
[0064] As discussed above, in one or more embodiments, the assembly
200 may include one or more levers 234 or lever bars, such as to
facilitate moving one or more of the subassemblies 204 between the
folded position and the deployed position. Accordingly, as shown in
detail in FIGS. 28A and 28B, a lever attachment mechanism 240 may
be connected to the assembly 200, such as connected (e.g.,
removably connected) to one or more of the subassemblies 204. The
lever attachment mechanism 240 may include one or more sockets 242
to receive an end of the lever 234. With respect to the first
subassembly 204A and/or the second subassembly 204B, the lever
attachment mechanism 240 may be able to clamp to and/or between a
subassembly 204 and a rod 226 to assist and facilitate rotating the
subassembly 204 with respect to the main frame 202 when deploying
the subassembly 204.
[0065] In one or more embodiments, one or more of the subassemblies
may be biased to assist and facilitate movement of the
subassemblies. The subassemblies may be biased away from the folded
position and/or away from the deployed position. Additionally or
alternatively, the subassemblies may be biased to a central
position between the folded position and the deployed position. For
example, with respect to FIG. 17, one or more biasing mechanisms
252, such as torsion springs, may be used to bias the subassemblies
204. One or more biasing mechanisms 252A may be positioned between
the first subassembly 204A and the main frame 202 to bias the first
subassembly 204A, and one or more biasing mechanisms 252B may be
positioned between the second subassembly 204B and the main frame
202 to bias the second subassembly 204B. In particular, a biasing
mechanism 252B may be positioned about the rod 226B with one end of
the biasing mechanism 252B connected to or inserted within a hole
connected to the second subassembly 204B and another end of the
biasing mechanism 252B connected to or inserted within a hole
connected to the main frame 202. A biasing mechanism 252A for
biasing the first subassembly 204A may then be similarly
situated.
[0066] As shown in one or more of the above embodiments, a first
subassembly may be rotatable by less than about 180 degrees between
the folded position and the deployed position with respect to the
main frame, and the second subassembly may be rotatable by more
than about 180 degrees between the folded position and the deployed
position with respect to the main frame. However, the present
disclosure is not so limited, as each subassembly may be rotatable
to any position and/or degree angle with respect to the main frame.
For example, the efficiency of solar energy absorbed by a
photovoltaic panel may be dependent upon numerous factors, in
particular an angle or height of the sun with respect to the
photovoltaic panel. Accordingly, the present disclosure
contemplates embodiments in which the angle at which the
subassemblies deploy may be adjusted.
[0067] Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, one or more of the
stop-arms may be adjustable and/or adjustable connected to the main
frame. This may enable an angle at which the subassembly supported
by the stop-arm is then also adjustable with respect to the main
frame. As described above with respect to adjusting a width of the
main frame, similar concepts may also be applied for designing a
stop-arm to be adjustable. For example, a stop-arm may be formed
from multiple components or segments, with the segments then
adjustable with respect to each other. Additionally or
alternatively, the connections between the stop-arm and the main
frame, and/or the stop-arm and the subassembly may be adjustable,
such as by including multiple sets of holes that may be selected
and adjusted for connection, as desired.
[0068] An embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure may
have the surface area required to produce enough solar power for
use within multiple applications, such as powering and housing
telecommunications equipment in a climate controlled area, and may
be capable of serving the needs mentioned in the one or more
industries described above. This assembly may be light weight and
rapidly deployable, saving end users the necessity for specialized
loading equipment and time.
[0069] A folding photovoltaic array mounting rack assembly and
modular building in accordance with the present disclosure may
improve upon current technology, such as by allowing users to more
safely and efficiently ship and assemble modular buildings having
solar generators that are used in conjunction with a foldable rack
having one or more photovoltaic panels connected to the rack. CNC
technology may be employed in one or more embodiments to assist in
the cutting process, such as to assure quality control standards
while reducing overall material waste. Once assembled, the foldable
rack assembly may be rapidly deployable, may be engineered to
endure 110 mph wind speeds, and/or may produce up to 9 kW or more
on an 8 ft.times.20 ft building foot print (a much larger amount of
energy produced per footprint than traditional racking systems and
solar generators). This improved power production may allow the
assembly to be an ideal telecommunications equipment center capable
of off-grid solar powered operation. In turn, this system may allow
for an expansion of telecommunications service where traditional
power is unavailable. This also goes for the other applications
mentioned in this application.
[0070] Considered broadly, the folding mounting rack assembly for
photovoltaic arrays may include a variable number of photovoltaic
panels mounted to subassemblies that connect and pivot about a
central axis. On the outboard side of the assembly may be one or
more stop-arms that may prevent the mounting array from rotating
past a predefined angle of incidence with respect to the sun. The
stop-arms may be fixed with machine screws to the underside of the
armature subassemblies to lock the subassemblies and/or panels into
position and resist uplift. In the event of inclement weather or if
the panels need to be transported, the machine screws at each
stop-arm can be removed. The stop-arms may be adjustable such that
the angle of incidence that one or more of the panels is disposed
at with respect to the sun may be adjusted, as desired. For
example, in one embodiment, an angle of incidence of one panel,
and/or more than one panel, may be adjusted to improve the
efficiency of the photovoltaic panels. One or more biasing
mechanisms may be disposed used to provide assistance when
deploying one or more panels between the deployed and folded
positions. Levers may also be used with one or more of the panels
and/or subassemblies to assist in movement between the deployed and
folded positions. Furthermore, included in the assembly may be a
series of tie downs and assistance bars for locking the folded
photovoltaic rack into a locked position for transportation upon
assembly completion.
[0071] This assembly may include a modular building or structure,
such as an ISO shipping container, for housing the rack assembly
during long transportation and/or for providing structure for the
rack assembly. The interior of the assembled system may be
insulated to reduce heat and may be conditioned to meet the needs
of telecommunications, medical, and materials treatment equipment,
as desired. Fully assembled, the system is capable of both on and
off-grid functionality with power storage.
[0072] While the present disclosure has been described with respect
to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art,
having benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that other
embodiments may be devised which do not depart from the scope of
the disclosure as described herein. Accordingly, the scope of the
disclosure should be limited only by the attached claims.
* * * * *